Did Rahul Gandhi Condole Puri Deaths and Demand Probe into Stampede?
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Synopsis
On June 29, Rahul Gandhi expressed condolences for the lives lost in the Puri stampede during the Rath Yatra. He labeled the tragedy as a serious warning about security lapses and called for accountability. Odisha's CM also ordered an investigation. This incident highlights the critical need for effective crowd management during large events.
Key Takeaways
- Rahul Gandhi expressed condolences for the Puri stampede victims.
- He emphasized the need for accountability and better crowd management.
- The Odisha government has initiated an investigation into the incident.
- At least three people died, and several others were injured.
- The Congress party is committed to supporting relief efforts.
New Delhi, June 29 (NationPress) The Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, expressed his condolences on Sunday regarding the tragic loss of life in the Puri stampede, labeling the episode as a serious warning about the significant failures in security and crowd control during the Rath Yatra.
He urged for accountability for those responsible.
“The stampede that occurred during the Rath Yatra in Puri is profoundly tragic. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families mourning their losses and wish for a swift recovery for the injured devotees,” Gandhi posted on X.
“I call upon the Odisha government to hasten relief efforts and encourage Congress workers to assist in any way they can,” he remarked.
Pointing fingers at the BJP government in Odisha, he stated, “This catastrophe serves as a grave reminder – for events of this scale, security measures and crowd management strategies must be taken with utmost seriousness and thoroughly evaluated. The safety of lives is of the utmost importance, and any failure in this duty is unacceptable.”
Reports indicate that at least three devotees lost their lives, and six others are currently receiving medical attention. The stampede transpired between 4 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. on Sunday, as per officials in Odisha.
In the aftermath of the incident, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi apologized to the followers of Lord Jagannath on Sunday and mandated an immediate inquiry into the security failures.
Previously, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge joined Gandhi in expressing sympathy to the victims' families and called for an investigation into the ‘negligence and mismanagement’ that led to this tragedy.
Kharge stated on X, “The State Government and the concerned authorities must perform a comprehensive investigation into the serious oversights that led to this incident. Ensuring public safety and effective crowd management is crucial, especially during highly anticipated events. Those accountable for this tragedy must face legal consequences.”
He added, “I am profoundly saddened by the stampede during the Mahaprabhu Jagannath Rath Yatra, which took three lives and injured at least 50 individuals. This tragedy follows reports of 500 devotees being harmed on Friday during the yatra.”
“My thoughts and prayers are with the victims' families. I wish for the swift recovery of all injured devotees. The negligence and mismanagement that resulted in this tragedy are utterly inexcusable,” he asserted.
The Congress party stands in solidarity with the devotees and pledges to support all initiatives aimed at providing relief, medical assistance, and aid to the affected families, he concluded.
Point of View
It is imperative to reflect on the urgent need for enhanced crowd management and security measures. National leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, have rightly emphasized the accountability of authorities. The safety of the public must always be the top priority, especially during large-scale events.
NationPress
29/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the Puri stampede?
The Puri stampede occurred due to lapses in crowd management during the Rath Yatra, leading to a chaotic situation.
How many people were affected by the stampede?
At least three devotees lost their lives, and six others were hospitalized with injuries.
What actions are being taken by the government?
Odisha's Chief Minister has ordered an immediate investigation into security failures and has apologized to the victims' families.
What has Rahul Gandhi said about the incident?
Rahul Gandhi condemned the incident as a serious warning regarding security lapses and called for accountability.
How can the public ensure safety during large events?
It is crucial for organizers and authorities to implement effective crowd management strategies and prioritize public safety.
